Watch schemes in Darlington to help ensure a safer town centre

New radios have been given to pubs and shops to help ensure the town centre is as a safe place to visit.

The council’s CCTV team has taken over the day to day running of the radio communications scheme in the town, which works with Pub Watch and Shop Watch members to deter crime, shoplifting and anti-social behaviour (ASB).

The radios make it easier for businesses to contact each other and other services, such as CCTV and the police, if they see anything concerning.

New radios have been issued, by leasing company Apex Radio Systems, to 27 shops, 30 licensed premises and 15 hospitality/leisure venues. Apex has also provided the radios for the police, taxi marshals and Number Forty free of charge.

The radios will ensure that any reports can be picked up by CCTV staff and passed onto police and the anti-social behaviour team as appropriate.

Venues have also received a training pack, so they know how to get the best out of the scheme and what support is available from the CCTV team, civic enforcement officers and police.

Councillor Mike Renton, cabinet member for stronger communities, said:

“We’re working hard to support town centre businesses and to provide a vibrant, safe and pleasant place for people to work and spend their leisure time.

“The Pub Watch and Shop Watch schemes have provided a useful network to share information and help promote a safer environment for all, and with the busy festive period fast approaching we’re delighted to be able to strengthen and widen that partnership for the benefit of all.

“I’d also urge any businesses keen to find out more or who want to get involved to get in touch.”

Sergeant Matt Plumb, from Darlington Police, said:

“The Pub Watch and Shop Watch schemes have proven to be vital in ensuring information can be shared quickly and efficiently between town centre businesses, CCTV officers, and the police.

“The radios allow us to be promptly alerted to any unfolding incidents or suspected offenders in the town, allowing us to respond quicker, making the town a safer place for all.”

Phil Wynne, business development manager at Apex Radio Systems, said:

“Apex has provided in excess of 260 watch schemes to town and city centres throughout the UK, with the majority depending on the proactive nature of its users.

“It has been a great pleasure working with Darlington Borough Council in rejuvenating the radio scheme due to the support provided by the CCTV team to ourselves and the scheme’s radio users.

“We’re confident with the support of the CCTV and Police, the system will go from strength to strength ensuring Darlington town centre continues to be a safe place to work, live and visit.”

James Buxton, chairman of Darlington Pub Watch and general manager of the Old Yard Tapas Bar, added:

“The new radios will provide the latest technology for the most effective communication between all parties involved within the town centre. The paramount importance is the safety of all people that visit Darlington and this massive upgrade in communication and partnership will help prevent crime on all levels from occurring, keeping the town centre vibrant for years to come.”

Gary Yates, soft services manager at the Cornmill Shopping Centre, added:

"The Cornmill Shopping Centre is proud to be part of the Darlington Shop Watch scheme and has been a member since its inception.

“We continue to support the scheme and are delighted with the upgrade of the new radio system, which will allow the scheme to go from strength to strength. The scheme is a great example of the combined effort of a number of partners working together to help make Darlington a better, safer place to live and shop.”

The Pub Watch radios have been funded, until March 2023, by the Durham Police and Crime Commissioner’s office.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.